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Review

2013
Cadillac
CTS-V Review

Reviewed by Automotive on
1/30/2013

Cadillac, most well-known as the luxury brand of General Motors, aims to please with the release of the 2013 Cadillac CTS-V. Like its maker, the CTS-V also carved a name out for itself after its initial release in 2008. From the supercharged engine to the posh interior, the 2013 Cadillac CTS-V is a wise choice.

The Cadillac CTS-V comes available in three different models: wagon, coupe, and sedan. A series of optional packages are readily available to entice drivers as well. However, fuel economy is not this car’s strong suit at 14/19 mpg city/highway.

New For 2013

One could argue there was minimal room for improvement on the 2012 CTS-V, but Cadillac did implement a few minor tweaks to the 2013 model. Expect to find the following updates on the 2013 Cadillac CTS-V:

Exterior

Sitting on standard 19-inch wheels, the Cadillac CTS-V demands recognition from the enlarged front grill to the rear spoiler that proudly displays the stomp lamp. In addition to the new Glacier Blue Metallic, drivers can also choose from one of seven other color options ranging from Radiant Silver Metallic to Crystal Red Tincoat. Guiding you through the harshest of weather conditions or the darkest of nights are the Adaptive Forward Lighting System headlamps, along with standard fog lamps. A power sunroof is optional.

Interior & Cargo

Luxury appointments are found throughout the spacious interior cabin and include standard leather trim and microfiber suede seating for five. Many features you would expect to find in a high-performance car in this class are present, including Bluetooth, a premium Bose Surround Sound system with accompanying CD/DVD player, and MP3 adapters. Also found nestled on the dashboard is a rearview camera system, USB with audio connectivity, and an AM/FM radio. Ebony or Light Titanium color palettes are standard in all three models.

Drivers can choose a body style that meets their daily needs, with maximum cargo capacity reaching 13.6 cubic feet in the sedan, 10.5 cubic feet in the coupe, and 58.0 cubic feet in the wagon.

Safety

To balance the great power under the raised hood, Cadillac implemented a variety of standard safety features in the wagon, coupe, and sedan models. Airbags are located throughout the car, including the driver front, passenger front, driver and passenger side seat-mounted, and along the roof for superior rollover protection. Anti-lock brakes and stability control are also present in every 2013 model. OnStar is also available with the push of a button in case of emergencies.

Driving Experience

Cadillac is synonymous with performance, and the CST-V is no exception. The 2013 model offers Magnetic Ride Control, which depends on magnetorheological technology to improve upon reaction time. A smooth and comfortable ride at any speed is also possible thanks to a StabiliTrack electronic chassis that stabilizes traction control. The CST-V’s 6.2-liter engine climbs to an astonishing 556 hp and 551 lb-ft of torque.

Regardless of your driving preferences, one will never have to sacrifice speed in the CST-V. Drivers can choose from one of two different transmission options: the manual six-speed Tremec TR6060 or the automatic six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L90.